The new 2023 Ford Escape is an impressive SUV Crossover that has many different safety features, engine sizes, and options. These smaller SUVs get good gas mileage and are able to transport a family wherever they may want to go. The Toyota RAV4 is another great option. So which one deserves a spot in your driveway? We will be reviewing how the 2023 Ford Escape compares to the 2023 Toyota RAV4.
Quick Specifications
Starting Price (subject to change):
- 2023 Ford Escape: Price starting at $28,995
- 2023 Toyota RAV4: Price starting at $28,910
Engine Size:
- 2023 Ford Escape: The Ford Escape offers models with a 1.5 Liter, 2.0 Liter and 2.5 Liter engine.
- 2023 Toyota RAV4: The Toyota RAV4 comes with a 2.5 liter engine.
Total Horsepower:
- 2023 Ford Escape: 165 to 250 horsepower.
- 2023 Toyota RAV4: 176 to 203 horsepower.
Seating Capacity:
- 2023 Ford Escape: The 2023 Ford Escape seats 5 passengers.
- 2023 Toyota RAV4: The 2023 Toyota RAV4 seats 5 passengers as well.
Towing Capacity:
- 2023 Ford Escape: The Escape can tow 1,500 to 3,500 pounds.
- 2023 Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 can tow 1,500 to 3,500 pounds.
Technical Differences
These two vehicles are quite similar when going over the quick specifications, so how do the Ford Escape and the Toyota RAV4 differ? One of the biggest differences that you will see are the engine sizes. The Ford Escape offers three different engine sizes, with one trim level offering a hybrid option. The Toyota RAV4 only offers the 2.5 liter engine on all trim levels, with a hybrid drivetrain option depending on the trim level.
Both the Ford Escape and the Toyota RAV4 are mated with an 8-Speed Automatic, however the Toyota RAV4 does have an optional manual transmission. The 2023 Ford Escape comes standard with an 8.0 inch infotainment screen, but can be upgraded to a 13.2 inch system with specific upgrades and packages. This differs from the Toyota infotainment as their base models have a 7.0 inch system and can be upgraded to a 10.5 inch system in their TRD Off-road trim level. A larger infotainment system is available in the XLE Premium and Limited trims.
The Ford Escape has some very impressive safety features that come standard in even their most basic trim levels. You will see such safety features as Ford Co-Pilot360 and adaptive cruise control. The Toyota RAV4's lower trims feature their Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) which allows you to select different terrain types to change the driving capabilities of the vehicle.
Both of these companies are offering a hybrid option for 2023. Interestingly enough the Ford lineup will feature a stand alone Ford Escape Hybrid option rather than building off of the available trims for this year. This specific trim will come standard with a great navigation system that is not seen in some of the other trim levels.
So…Which do you Choose, the Ford Escape or the Toyota RAV4?
Looking over all the different specifications of these two vehicles and what they have to offer they can come across as quite similar. The 2023 Ford Escape is a friendlier option because it offers multiple platforms for engines as well as different options for both front wheel drive or all wheel drive. With such variety you’re sure to find your perfect fit.